Modern Driveline’s new TREMEC TKX Five-Speed Offers the advantages of the proven TKO along with perfect fit Text & Photography by Jim Smart TREMEC’s performance-proven TKO five-speed transmission became famous in the 1990s with the PRO 5.0 Mustang drag racing movement and has swiftly spread across all high-performance applications where higher torque…
429 Cougar Special The BOSS 429 Mustang is perhaps one of the rarest and most sought after of all the high-performance Ford models. Originally produced for NASCAR homologation, only about 1,350 cars were made in its two-year run from 1969 to 1970. And while the mighty “Shotgun” motor was never designed to go into the…
I have owned this 1967 Mustang since 1977 when I was 18 years old. I have done almost all the work on it myself, screwing up and teaching myself how to fix my mistakes. I actively open track my car at Laguna Seca, Sears Point, and Thunder Hill. This install was fairly straightforward being…
1967 Mustang Living 3-Pedal Life With A New TKX We had a customer email us a few photos of his recent TKX install into his ’67 Mustang. He has owned this car for a number of years and over time made changes and…
[pdf-embedder url=”https://www.moderndriveline.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/IN-910-0082-Rev-1.pdf” title=”IN-910-0082 Rev 1
’66 Mustang TKX info MDL fitted a New Tremec TKX into a 1966 Mustang just to see what was involved. What we learned was that the factory tunnel support interferes slightly…
How It All Began In 1967, during the heyday of the muscle car era, Chevrolet introduced the Camaro, its answer to the Ford Mustang. The basic Camaro had an inline-6 powertrain of 230 inches (3.8 liters), which put the top maximum speed at 140 miles per hour (mph). Some came equipped with a V-8 engine…
Some of the questions we get here at MDL are listed below with the answers we provide to help you.
TKO/TKX OIl Servicing your car’s transmission is an integral part of routine car maintenance, but even more crucial is making sure you use the right kind of oil and fluids. If you have a TREMEC TKX or TKO transmission, there are only a few oils or fluids recommended for use, and TREMEC cautions against alternatives.…
Some PRO-TIPS to installing a new Tremec Transmission to help make it a smooth easy job.
Tremec T5 This transmission requires just under 3-Quarts of oil. We recommend that the fluid in a TREMEC T-5 transmission should be changed after its initial 500 miles. The fluid should be changed every 30,000 miles after that CAUTION Do not mix different brands or types of transmission lubricant in any transmission. DO NOT USE GEAR OIL IN THE…
Some great information about Oil & regular maintenance will keep your transmission in top-performing condition.
The 1969 model year signaled the end of an era in Mustang production. For all intents and purposes, this would be the last year that any new original Shelby Mustangs were produced. Though both the GT350 and GT500 would be offered for the 1970 model year, each was simply re-VIN numbered 1969 model production cars.…
TKX Five Speed Single Overdrive Conversion up to 750hp We put a New Tremec TKX in a 1966 Mustang. The tunnel support was moved back 2-3/4″ then reattached to the floorpan & tunnel. Our crossmember & mount were used on the TKX as you can see it maintains the angle requires and we have great…
There are several things to know when it comes to choosing a starter, torque requirements, fit & specialty applications
Hopefully, this sheds a little light on figuring out which Differential you have in your Mustang
watch to see the technique to use when installing your clutch fork to avoid breaking the tabs
Knowing your rear end’s gear ratio is crucial when you are considering a transmission upgrade
Here’s a quick informative video to help you select the appropriate slip yoke for your project.
Pure Notch Facts 1992 Mustang LX Coupe 327ci Small-Block Ford V-8 Stroker, A4 Block 486 horsepower with 465 ft/lbs of torque rear wheel Modern Driveline/TREMEC T-5z Five-Speed with .80:1 Overdrive Ford 8.8-inch with 3.55:1 Gold Track and 9-inch Flanges Baer Four-Piston 14-inch Front Disc Brakes Baer Four-Piston 13-inch Rear Disc Brakes 1995 SVT Cobra R…
For the first time ever, European customers can get their hands on the Ford Mustang Mach 1
A quick overview of different types of hydraulic clutch master cylinders and how they are applied.
Here’s a quick overview of MDL Hydraulic External Slave Cylinders & Internal Release Bearings
A quick Video about bleeding your Hydraulic Clutch Master with our One-man Bleeder Kit.
Just imagine a five-speed transmission capable of 500-600 horsepower for your C2/C3 Corvette.
Steering wheel in your left hand, shifting gears with your right going fast on the open road brings intense pleasure.
All-America icon Ford Mustang sets world-record meeting in Belgium
The Tremec TR3160 is a superbly crafted piece of machinery known for buttery smooth shifts
With the 760 horsepowerGT500 in full stride, production will finish of the Shelby GT350 and GT350R, fall 2020 as planned.
Originally built with an auto, we prepped it for a modern Tremec T56 Magnum transmission, behind the LS3 engine.
A few videos about Tremec’s TKO 5-speed & T56 Magnum 6-speed Series Transmissions.
A quick review of our LIght Foot Series Clutch hydraulics by: Paul Coffey
Engineered & purpose-built, specifically to take on Ferrari and its 250 GTO
A quick video overview of the Hot New Tremec TKX 5-Speed Transmission
A quick Video overview of the Hot New Tremec T56/ 6-Speed Transmission
A quick Video overview of the Hot New Tremec TKO 5-Speed Transmission
A quick Video overview of the Hot New Tremec T5z/5-Speed Transmission
A quick Video outlining all of the support items we carry to make your conversion a snap.
1967-camaro-with-mdl-5-speed-upgrade-package installed By V8 Speed & Resto
Quick Video overview of the MDL Flathead adapters we offer shot at the NSRA Show in Louisville
Video of one of our customer’s beautiful 1970 Challenger with a T56 Magnum 6-Speed
IN-VET6379-FL C2 Corvette Flange Kit Rev 1
MDL offers rebuild services for your T56. using the highest quality rebuild kits that meet all standards set by professional installers
MDL offers rebuild services for your NON-World Class T5. using the highest quality rebuild kits that meet all standards set by professional installers
IN-Clutch Install & Break-In Instructions
A quick video overview of what Modern DriveLine has been offering its customers for over 22 years.
Instructions from Quick Time step by step installation & guidelines.
MDL offers rebuild services for your TKO/3550. using the highest quality rebuild kits that meet all standards set by professional installers
MDL offers rebuild services for your World Class T5. using the highest quality rebuild kits that meet all standards set by the pro’s.
IN-401-210X Rev 2 Adapter Installation
Fulcrum Instructions
Have you checked out the new Chevrolet #COPO Camaro? It’s available in limited quantities from Chevrolet Performance with your choice of a #Supercharged 350ci engine (@NHRA rated at over 600 #HorsePower) or a 427ci engine, both #LokarEquipped with a Locking Engine Dipstick! You can also choose from a variety of performance packages and colors, including…
How to determine transmission speedometer gear and what information is needed in order to properly calibrate a speedometer.
IN-VET6379-FL C2 Corvette Flange Kit Rev 1
We talk about driveshafts and some of the details when it comes to ordering or installing one
Click here to see PART 1 Click here to see PART 2 Click here to see PART 3
We install the components needed to mate this TKO trans to a Ford Aluminator V8
1976 Mustang Project The second owner, purchased it in 1984 when they were in high school. “It pretty much sat in the garage for 25 years until my son wanted to get it going again.” “After rebuilding the carburetor and going through the brakes and a few other minor things, it fired right up &…
A little information on U-Joints, sizing, their operation, how to identify & a little history
Common causes of driveline vibration-U-joints, slip splines, yokes, out-of-balance components.
A little info about the Tilton 6000-Series race-proven throw-out bearings installation application & features
Causes of vibration in your drivetrain with respect to the rear axle driveshaft & universals
Prepare for Departure This car was featured in the Battle of the builders at the 2019 SEMA show. MDL was fortunate enough to have had a part in this beautiful build. Whipple Motorsport builds top of the line cars, we are proud to be associated with them. Don’t forget to pick up your copy of…
Lucas Synthetic 50 WT Transmission Oil is designed especially for heavy-duty truck transmissions but can be used in many other applications. Common gear oils are mostly base stocks with little more than an addition of sulfur and phosphorus as a total anti-wear package. Lucas Oil Products consider that inadequate! Most heavy-duty truck transmission manufacturers now…
Video showing the simple/non-marring removal of a Pilot Bearing
Overdrive transmissions are a great thing. They enable you to significantly improve the gearing and acceleration of your car while maintaining gas mileage and highway cruise-ability. Unfortunately, overdrives, manual or automatic, weren’t offered in Ford vehicles until the late ’70s. But that doesn’t mean you have to be stuck with the non-overdrive C4’s. C6’s, and…
Back in the day, Corvettes with six tail lamps were a familiar sight—even though Chevrolet never officially offered such an option. Here’s the story behind this interesting Corvette non-feature. In the famous 1964 Jan and Dean song, “Dead Man’s Curve,” The illegal street race between a Corvette Sting Ray and a Jaguar XKE, are…
In 1957 Manual transmissions were limited to three-speed, column shifted units (with synchromesh in second and third gear only). The Powerglide’s shifter went P N D L R while the Turboglide’s was P R N D Hr (although the ‘Hr’ was changed early in the production series to ‘Gr’-Grade Retarder because of drivers’ mistaken belief that ‘Hr‘ meant High…
Here are some helpful details and an outlined procedure on how to find your tire size
42nd ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL MUSTANG MEET MDL is a proud sponsor and will have a display onsite Hover over image to enlarge Events Note: that the events and times below are tentative and are subject to change. Additional tour events may be added and may have additional costs. Friday, September 3 – 8:00am–5:00pm MDT Tech…
What’s the Difference Between a Ford 351 Windsor, Cleveland, or Modified Engine? There is plenty of aftermarket support for Ford 351 engines, the tough part is figuring out which engine you’ve got. Engines are often identified by their displacement, like the ubiquitous Chevy 350, Mopar 440, or Ford 5.0 But displacement alone isn’t always the…
PONTIAC SIX GM created Pontiac in 1926. The company’s first car was an inexpensive six-cylinder “companion” to GM’s more expensive Oakland brand. Ironically, Pontiac shined while Oakland faded. The Depression undoubtedly played the role of killer, as it did to so many of the mid to expensive brands. Pontiac barely survived, and the fact that…
a great source for measuring your slip yoke to determine size & series (video included)
Transmission swap options & helpful tips for a 5 or 6-speed upgrade
The Pro’s & Con’s of buying a used manual 5 or 6-speed, things to look for and be cautious of.
The Ford Mustang Mach 1 A performance-oriented option package of the Ford Mustang, originally introduced by Ford in August 1968 as a package for the 1969 model year. The Mach 1 title adorned performance oriented Mustang offerings until the original retirement of the moniker in 1978, returning briefly in 2003 and 2004. As part of a Ford heritage program, the…
THE NEW TKX Tremec’s new powerhouse with a sleek all-new case you’ve been waiting for. the TKX offers an impressive array of flexibility features. an all-new end loading design, adding strength. Rear main-shaft support bushing moved from tail closer to gearbox provides better support. New smaller stamped-steel mid-position cover with 4 M6 x 18 countersunk…
A guide to selecting a FORD flywheel like tooth count. engine balance and other details
A guide to selecting a GM flywheel like Crankshaft register diameter, tooth count. engine balance etc.
TREMEC Distributor Spotlight – Modern Driveline
The second-generation Ford Mustang, marketed as the Ford Mustang II, is a two- or three-door, four-passenger, front-engine/rear-drive pony car manufactured and marketed by Ford from 1973 to 1978. Introduced in September 1973 for the model year 1974, the Mustang II arrived roughly coincident with the oil embargo of 1973 and subsequent fuel shortages. It arrived 490 pounds lighter and almost 19 inches…
We’ve compiled five key considerations for converting your car to a 5 or 6-speed transmission
A page listing some specification info. & features of the Tremec TR 3550 transmission
A page listing some specification info. & features of the Tremec TR 3550 transmission
Some information to Prevent Unnecessary Power Loss and Wear & Tear with proper bell alignment/indexing
A Quick Guide to help Identify Ford In-line six-Cylinder Bell Housings flywheels and clutches
This helps take the guess work out of getting the right components for the flywheel, clutch, and starter
A quick guide to Flathead adapters, clutch linkage application & Tremec T5 & TKO
Installing a five-speed transmission into a classic muscle car could not be any easier these days. Not only is it easy but there are numerous choices to be had. Transmission Choices Many of the five-speed transmissions found in late model Fords (the late model being those produced in the past 35 years) can be used…
When the car is equipped with a 3 or 4-speed manual transmission, the job is a lot easier than converting from an automatic. There are two ways to install a T-5 transmission for a stick equipped car. Use the original bell One way is to use the original bell housing and install an adapter…
Our TREMEC TKO small-block conversions are much like the T5 swap. We start with a cable operated 1995 351w Mustang Cobra R model bellhousing. This same bell housing or scatter shield can be used behind any six-bolt 289/302/351 block. The Modern Driveline clutch cable kit or hydraulic kit allows the stock early Mustang, Cougar and…
Installing a TREMEC T-5 in place of an automatic, behind a small block Ford is relatively straight forward. Using many of the same components and concepts as used in Fox body Mustangs in the ’80s and ’90s simplifies the process. Bell housing Start by using a TREMEC T-5 bell housing assembly from a 1984-93…
Step by Step instructions on how to trim your automatic brake pedal to make room for a clutch pedal
Some helpful information for matching the right flywheel to your engine
Ford has created an all-electric Mustang Cobra Jet 1400 that destroys a quarter-mile in the “low 8-second range” at more than 170 mph, the company revealed Thursday. This is not a car that any Joe can buy. This is a one-off demonstration prototype designed to prove out Ford’s electric innovation. The dragster is built for Ford…
ALL ABOUT THE FIRST MUSTANG Every great story has a memorable beginning, and the genesis of the Ford Mustang is no exception. One of the most popular and longest-running automobiles in the United States, the Mustang has been a global phenomenon since it rolled off the assembly line for the first time in the spring…
Bill Armstrong’s TREMEC-Equipped 1966 Ford Fairlane 500 A regular feature on the TREMEC blog is a spotlight on the people behind the wheel of #TREMECequipped vehicles. We share stories about their vehicle and why they enjoy shifting gears for themselves and working the third pedal. This month’s customer spotlight is on Bill Armstrong and his…
MEET THE BOSS The Boss 429 is recognized as being among some of the rarest and highly valued muscle cars to date. In total there were 1359 original Boss 429s made. The origin of the Boss 429 was to fulfill Ford’s need to homologate the 429 semi-hemispherical engine for NASCAR racing. Ford was seeking to develop an engine…
Below is a series of short 1 minute videos we are presenting to give our customers a little detail of the operation alignment & clearances they should expect when installing these products. Thank you for watching. We hope this helps and remember if you have any questions don’t hesitate to contact us we have engineers…
A Short History and Evolution of the Flathead V8, and Making It Modern Back in 1932, Henry Ford introduced the 221 cubic inch Flathead engine producing 65 HP. And by 1935 HP was increased to 85 HP. Those engines were produced from 1932 to 1938 and were commonly known as “21 stud engines”, due to…
A Short Article About Fitting Application The contemporary racer/builder can reach for an almost limitless selection of AN fitting variations to accommodate any plumbing situation, and with a fair amount of color and coating choices. Some companies even offer a complete line of raw fittings allowing the user to anodize them to a custom color…
Click here to see PART 1 Click here to see PART 3 Click here to see PART 4 Link to MDL-Corvette Crossmember Flange kit.
400 and 351M 400 By 1970 the 390 V8 FE engine was becoming outdated. With pending emission requirements, a more modern replacement was needed. Although the big-block 385 family was used to replace the larger displacement 428 V8 FE engine, this engine family had nothing comparable in size to the 390 V8. For the 1971 model year, Ford introduced the…
MDL is trying to keep you informed with the latest developments as it pertains to all of us Car Guys Racing news and listed below that are Carshow updates as they come in. Check the post date for the latest news. UPDATED 05/11/2021 Dayco Amps Up North American Motorsports Program by Sponsoring Five Extreme Drift…
Click here to see PART 2 Click here to see PART 3 Click here to see PART 4
—————————————————————————– 5 & 6 SPEED CONVERSION SPECIALISTS —————————————————————————- —————————————————————————————————– DAY TO DAY OPERATIONS MDL is Open for business MDL has made changes to staff locations & implemented flex-hours in keeping with COVID-19 Safety Precautions To keep our service to our customers as seamless as possible We ask for your patience processing your…
1971-73 Ford Mustang Lee Iacocca, who introduced the Mustang on April 17th, 1964 just 7 years later was unhappy with the car and what had happened to the original idea of the Mustang. Which was the Mustang created the “pony car“ class of American muscle cars, distinguished as affordable sporty coupes with long hoods and short rear…
THE 1966 SHELBY GT350H The Shelby GT350H was a special promotion, dreamed up between Ford, Carroll Shelby, and Hertz rent a car. It’s a little absurd that in 1966 you could rent a powerful muscle car, and the Shelby GT350H was powerful. Each associated company had their own reasons for agreeing to participate in this.…
1967 Camaro Convertible Holley Sniper EFI Tremec TKO 5-Speed Feature V8 Speed & Resto Shop V8TV
WHAT IS THE MUSTANG COBRA II? In a way, perhaps no one variant illustrates the perceived missteps of the second generation “Mustang II” than the Cobra II. Produced for three years between 1976 and 1978, the Cobra II offered little of substance over the stock pony cars. That being said, the Cobra II sports a…
SHOP FORDSHOP CHEVYSHOP MOPAR STREET KING SMALL STREET KING LARGE STREET KING METRIC Just because you change your clutch, doesn’t mean you have to change the way you drive. Enjoyable Driving Experience The Street King clutch…
Instructions to remove current tail housing & install new MDL Tail Housing
Here are a series of steps to unlocking a TKO transmission that is stuck in gear.
THE GM F-BODY 6-SPEED 1982-2002 TREMEC Magnum-F™ 6-speed for fourth-generation Camaros and Firebirds. Consider Your Old F-Car T-56 Obsolete! The long-awaited and highly-anticipated F-car-specific version of TREMEC’s popular Magnum 6-speed has finally arrived! Designed to replace T-56 transmissions in 1998-2002 GM F-bodies, the Magnum-F leverages TREMEC’s pervasive TR-6060/Magnum architecture in order to provide fourth-gen…
A handy guide to installing the T/O bearing & clutch lever correctly
As appetizer …. Before you will see tomorrow the full length 2019 Peking to Paris film on the Endurance Rally Association – ERA Facebook page, we're glad to present you this appetizer. A compilation on how our 9 brave Belgian teams managed to get to Paris.Take your biggest screen, your best audio system, a cold…
VIDEO: Step by Step Installation of a Tremec TKO Transmission FAQ – shifts well when cold vs. hot. Answer: Adjust clutch. Other FAQ’s regarding Installation
Modern Driveline brings your 1979-93 Mustang into the 21st Century with crispy T-56 Magnum smoothness and performance When Ford added a five-speed to the Mustang’s transmission line-up in 1983, it seemed way out there for those of us old enough to remember when even four-speeds were a fresh mainstream idea from Detroit. In time, five-speeds…
a quick guide to installing a 5-speed into your 71-73 Mustang/Cougar
An illustrated step by step guide to installing MDL Fox Body Hydraulic MasterKit
Here’s How… To Get A Light Clutch Pedal With Modern Driveline’s LF Series Hydraulic Clutch System Modern Driveline’s LF Series Hydraulic Clutch Kits for classic cars make light work of a heavy pedal by letting fluid do the hard work mechanical Z-bar clutch systems have been doing for generations. Modern Driveline has taken the…
Modern Driveline shows you how to choose the right clutch Although clutch and flywheel selection seems like black magic science, it really is straightforward. When the right choices are made you get an unbeatable clutch and flywheel combo that will serve you well for years to come. In the long run, you will save…
It is challenging for us at Modern Driveline to understand the engineering logic behind the Getrag MT-82 six-speed transmission in the 2005-16 Mustang (V-6) and Mustang GT (V-8). The factory-installed MT-82 employs a semi-remote shifter attached to the transmission tunnel tied to the transmission via a shifter rail that, at best, delivers sloppy shift performance…
Modern Driveline 1955-1957 Chevy Tri 5 Modern Driveline’s approach to the Tri 5 using a TKO five speed or T56 six speed transmission conversion from a 3 or 4 speed manual transmission or automatic transmission is quite simple. When converting from a manual transmission, the original Chevy bell housing can be reused along with the…
Modern Driveline C10 Truck Conversions Modern Driveline’s approach to the C10 Truck using a TKO 5-speed transmission conversion from a 3 or 4-speed manual transmission is quite simple. In most cases, the original Chevy bell housing can be reused along with the 168 tooth 11” clutch pattern or 153 tooth 10.5” clutch pattern flywheel as…
Modern Driveline Ford F Series Truck Conversions Modern Drivelines has several approaches for 5 and 6 speed transmission conversions for your Ford F Series Truck. Modern Driveline can provide you with the parts needed to install one of our Tremec transmissions behind Straight Six, 289, 302 351w, 351c all FEs, 385 series and Coyote engines.…
Preload Bearing Pre-load is defined as: Internal stress to a bearing through application of negative clearance is known as bearing pre-loading. What is mean when you hear: No Bearing Pre-load Allowed There is no clearance and no negative clearance of an installed bearing surface. This does not include any intended spring pressure from a…
A STILL PHOTO DOCUMENTARY OF A TKO 5-SPEED INSTALL IN A CLASSIC 1970 DODGE DART
2020 GT500 FIRST OFF ASSEMBLY LINE DELIVERED WITH SPECIAL OPTION NOBODY ELSE CAN ORDER
Our TKO 5-Speed Conversion Kit was featured on ‘All Girls Garage’ A 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass has a few issues with leaks and power loss. The crew tracks down the problems, and then converts the transmission from automatic to manual so the owner can drive a classic as it was meant to be enjoyed. Modern DriveLine…
https://www.moderndriveline.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/CDC-GT500-sound-final.mp4 Unveiled at SEMA 2019 Featuring an MDL conversion package. Get started on yours today.
WATCH VIDEO Cick to watch Video and see what Hemmings wanted to know
Video outlining the steps to installing the MDL clutch pedal into a ’71-73 Mustang
We have parts & know-how to rebuild and repair BW/TREMEC T5, T45, T56, 3550, TKO500/TKO600, 3650 / T56 magnum
IT’S HERE… The C-3 Corvette hydraulic conversion kit you’ve been waiting for. From the SEMA award winning team that brought you the SN95 Mustang Hydraulics. READ MORE
MD-910-0106 C-3 Corvette 68-81 Hydraulic Clutch Master Cylinder Installation Instructions
Now who has the last laugh This 1968 Ford Bronco wagon was left for Jay Leno as a joke, arranged by fellow late-night TV host Craig Ferguson to be parked in Leno’s spot on the eve of his last taping. Ferguson was unaware of the iconic status of the Bronco – and had no idea…
Instructions from Hurst on how to install your new shift boot
“First, let me say thank you one more time: your help and frank, honest answers were immensely helpful. It was obvious from the start that you were more concerned with getting me the appropriate equipment than maximizing your profit. Being able to get everything from one source and then to call you with questions was…
Hyd Clutch Master Kit, ’57-’72 F Series Truck LF Series Type 2 Modern DriveLine’s ‘Light Foot’ series Hydraulic Master cylinder clutch cylinder kit uses the stock clutch pedal. Engineered to use the factory full swing of the pedal, for maximum leverage, it provides a light pedal effort and full control of the clutch, this translates to…
SHOP FORDSHOP CHEVY . MDL is Proud to carry the new range of TILTON ST-246 Twin Disc Clutches for the high-performance street market. ST-246 Clutch Kits…. Racing Technology applied to the Street. Since 1972, Tilton Engineering has been the leading supplier of small diameter racing clutches. Tilton racing clutches are world renowned for their…
Breaking News: Nov. 4, 2019 Modern Driveline’s SN95 Hydraulic Master selected as the Best Engineered Product at SEMA 2019! Attention 1994-2004 Mustang owners Tired of burning your clutch cable? Have you had to replace your cable because it’s worn out? Is that heavy pedal just too much, want it to feel more like a…
SEMA PDF BOOTH# 50323 Modern DriveLine is proud to announce especially for SEMA 2019 We’re already gearing up for Sema 2020 New Product Showcase: Featuring Our ‘Newly Released’ …
This one-person bleeder kit serves as the primary way to bleed your MDL hydraulic system.
BUSHING TECH The LINK above is a pdf. version of STEP by STEP installation instructions for the clutch pedal roller bearing kit we supply. This kit replaces stock Ford plastic bushings that can wear out in as quickly as one year. This is a very simple repair and upgrades, once you have removed the pedal…
Important information regarding hydraulic clutch master fitment with power brakes
We were Glad to see you all, and we’re looking forward to next year Modern Driveline will be in Las Vegas at this years SEMA show. MDL will be exhibiting, for the first time, with Gateway Classic Mustang with Ford Out Front, located outside the convention center in the front (Silver Lot#2 booth 61023). Modern…
SEMA 2010 This year Modern Driveline has introduced and perfected many new products and has expanded its markets. As part of these endeavors several customers have built specialty vehicles which will be on display at SEMA and other shows through the coming year. Here is a sampling of the cars and the companies who built…
Bob Ream was inspired to build a nostalgic racer modernized with a 427 aluminum Dart block, and TREMEC T56 Magnum 6-speed transmission, among other changes. Bob knows something about vintage cars and modernization. He owns Imagine Injection, Inc. in Glendale, AZ, building Electronic Fuel Injection systems with the look of Weber carburetors of yesterday. You will…
“Cars Modern Driveline is a part of.” Good morning Bruce, Just wanted to let you know that I finally got to drive the AC…..The gearing feels great, the clutch and shifting are superb!!! Thanks for all your help on this… I love that T5! I’m getting a *huge* increase in miles-per-gallon, due largely to the…
Two projects for SEMA 2015. A 1963 Corvette and a 1968 Mustang. Both equipped with Modern Driveline Transmissions. Click to see 1967 Mustang Kits Click to see 1963 Corvette Kits …
The following pictorial highlights the build of a 1933 American Speed Body built onto a Shadow Rods Chassis with a Flathead power plant followed by a MDL Front Shift T5 1933 Rod Build Enthusiasts Who Are Also Engineers This is why you do business with Modern Driveline. We are not a large company with huge…
The following pictorial highlights Bill’s 1966 Mustang. Bill wrote “Thought I would send a couple of pictures of the car. With the great weather this winter in Oregon I’ve been able to put about 900 miles on it so far. I would like to thank you for the help and the fast shipping. 66 GT…
The following pictorial highlights Jim’s 2013 Mustang. Jim contacted us not long after buying this 2013 Mustang GT. Stock with a MT-82 transmission and stock 5.0L, Jim knew that it would not live up to his expectations of spirited street and Road Course driving. To deliver the power generated by the Roush Stage 3 kit…
David shows off his 1973 Mach 1. David, from Trenton Michigan, works as a Engineer for Ford. In his off hours he has restored this 1973 Mustang Mach 1. In November 2016 he is taking the car back to its original home in Pennsylvania to surprise the previous owner, John, with the beauty of the restoration. …
Who says you have to park your classic muscle in the garage in the winter? Our customers enjoy their classic cars any time of year. Who says you have to park your classic muscle in the garage in the winter? Our customers enjoy their classic cars any time of year. Enthusiasts Who Are Also Engineers…
The T-5 five-speed transmission was developed for a broad range of vehicle applications from passenger car to compact sport utility vehicle (SUV) requirements. The TREMEC T-5 has been used on various passenger car and light truck applications. It’s largest application was the Mustang GT. Currently, it is sold to the aftermarket for modernizing classic vehicles. Features &…
The T-45 five-speed overdrive transmission was developed primarily for high-performance cars with relatively high-engine torque requirements but is adaptable to other light-duty applications such as sport utility light trucks. Product Run 1996 – Feb 2001 Ford 4.6L Mustang The Borg Warner T-45 was introduced in 1996 when the Ford 4.6L Modular motor was released. These…
TREMEC TR3550 5 Speed overdrive transmission was developed to provide great torque capacity and is ideal for specialty sports cars equipped with high torque engines. The TREMEC TR3550 5 Speed was both a product and a product line. The product line encompassed the 3550 and TKO models. Each model had two versions. One being…
The TR-3650 five-speed overdrive transmission was developed using state-of-the-art technology and is designed for a wide range of cars and compact utility vehicles. Currently, the TREMEC TR-3650 is used in the Ford Mustang GT and the BA Falcon. It was first introduced in 2001 as a replacement for the T-45 five speed. Produced from 2001-2004…
World-Class T5 Not all Borg Warner/TREMEC T5’s are the same. T5 Service Manual LINK The first T5 five speeds were introduced to market in 1980, in all things, an AMC Spirit/Concord. In 1983, T5’s were introduced to Fox body Mustangs and continued to be used in V-6 Mustangs until 2010. The T5 is…
Tremec’s New T-56 Magnum Is Ready To Make Stronger, Smoother Music In Your ‘Stang Dale Amy September 1, 2009 In the great pecking order of Mustang manual transmissions, six-speed gearboxes such as those factory-installed in ’03-’04 Cobras and current GT500s clearly rule the roost. While most of us had to get by with only five…
If you are rebuilding your transmission look below for the service manual which may guide you to a successful outcome. Service details for the T-5, TKO, and T-56 transmissions are provided below in pdf form. Download and print them to help guide you through the process of rebuilding and repair of your transmission. If you…
Out Of The Relative Quiet Of Oregon’s Rogue Valley Comes The Undeniable Roar Of Brute Ford Power Jim Smart June 1, 2007 Medford, Oregon, hides in plain sight along Interstate 5, just north of the California border. This largely agricultural community is on the beaten path, yet far enough off of it that the masses…
Written by Diego Rosenberg on June 19, 2013 Readers of Hot Rod should be familiar with Pure Vision Performance’s reputation for top-notch workmanship and performance. In fact, in our December, 2012 issue, we featured their Road Bee. But what can you expect next from the folks due northwest from Los Angeles? Come November at SEMA 2013, Pure Vision will unveil their first…
Written by Brandan Gillogly on November 5, 2013 Steve Strope, owner of Pure Vision, has made a habit of debuting an amazing build at the annual SEMA show. Last year was the racy Martini Mustang that featured a rare Ford Indy OHC V8. For SEMA 2013, he moved from a stripped race car to a luxury grand touring car in…
Ed Schmidt Never Expected To Keep His 1967 Ford Mustang GT Fastback For 40 Years Donald Farr Former Editor, Mustang Monthly January 10, 2011 Lonny Childress pulled over, set the parking brake, and announced, “Now you drive.” I was visiting Gateway Classic Mustang to check out their new vintage Mustang suspension system (see “Gateway to…
Carla Coleman’s Father Bought This ’65 Fastback Brand-New. She And Husband Jerry Have Rebuilt It Into A Modern Cruiser Donald Farr Former Editor, Mustang Monthly June 1, 2010 Photos By: Jerry Heasley In November 1964, Charles Modesitt placed an order for a Rangoon Red ’65 Mustang fastback. While most buyers chose the new fastback body style…
Tremec’s Magnum Six-Speed Will Separate Your Classic Ford From The Rest Of The Herd Dale Amy July 16, 2010 Tech | Transmission Upgrade You don’t have to have the mathematical skills of Einstein to grasp the obvious advantages of a six-speed gearbox over any old-school three- or four-speed box. With a deep overdrive in Sixth…
A Mustang Coupe That Really Hauls Joe Greeves February 4, 2014 Do you know the difference between a pickup truck and an Ute? Most enthusiasts think that Ute is just an Australian term for a pickup truck, but it’s more than that. Henry Ford debuted the first factory-produced pickup truck in 1925, a Model T…
Clutch Need A Crutch? Jim Smart January 19, 2016 If you’ve been driving a classic Mustang with a manual transmission for a while you probably understand this one. The original factory clutch Z-bar systems were terrible at best because they were never strong enough nor were they properly engineered for the task. We’ve often made…
Typical Errors and Misconceptions We All Make – And How to Avoid Them Written by Jim Smart March 9, 2016 OK, admit it. You’re tempted to cruise past this article, yet you can’t resist the desire to read it to see if you’ve made at least one of these mistakes building a classic muscle car.…
Jim Smart May 31, 2016 Modern Driveline was on top of the five-speed conversion game before anyone else with complete five-speed conversion kits and great technical support. These days, the Modern Driveline discussion moves quickly to five- and six-speed conversions for all Mustang generations and a host of other popular marques like Chevy Camaro, Corvette,…
Jim Smart May 31, 2016 When Ford introduced the all-new 1979 Mustang in the fall of 1978, few of us believed it would ever be collectible. At the time classic 1965-1973 Mustangs were coming into their own as hot collector cars and they got all the attention. Late model Fox-body Mustangs weren’t even considered Mustangs…
Mustang Monthly by Rob Kinnan Heidt’s Hot Rod & Muscle Car Parts updated this 1967 Shelby G.T. 350 Clone with their bolt-in IRS and a modern Drivetrain. The transmission is a Tremec T-56 six-speed provided by Bruce Couture of Modern Driveline. “Bruce supplied the trans and everything from the flywheel to the input shaft,” Leyshon…
Muscle Mustangs and Fast Fords by Jim Smart Pedal Play: Modern Driveline Makes It Fast & Easy to Get Precision Low-Pedal Resistance Clutch Performance Jim Smart November 1, 2016 Fox-Body Mustangs haven’t been this popular since the 1990s. Sales of these lightweight, good-looking 1979-1993 Stangs haven’t been this brisk in ages. They’re plentiful and cheap,…
Acheive SPOT-ON clutch bellhousing & Trans alignment for reduced wear & increased performance
by Jim Smart Thanks to MODERN DRIVELINE (MDL), a TKO 5-speed upgrade for your 1955-’57 Chevy is just a weekend away. MDL enables you to move quickly on this conversion in a weekend because everything is available in one spot. We found the installation to be straightforward, void of unexpected obstacles and delays. No special modifications…
LF Series External Hydraulic Clutch Slave Uses cable style lever and bearing Integrated bleed Simple installation Simple and reliable Compatible with T5/TKO Aluminum Bell and Quicktime steel bell Alternative to Mechanical linkage The LF Series Hydraulic Clutch Slave is designed as a alternative to mechanical linkage or a replacement for the cabled clutch system. Using…
The Muscle-Z-Bar is the answer to poor performance from your mechanical linkage. Spherical rod ends, heim joints, and fully adjustable linkage rods remove the binding points which plaque mechanical linkages. As Jim Smart says in Mustang Monthly: “The vintage Mustang’s stock clutch linkage isn’t a bad design. In fact, it isn’t much different than most from the…
TREMEC offers several different models of five speed transmissions**, and introduced a new lineup in 2004. Here is a bit of the history of the TKO line. The manual transmission line of Borg Warner is now owned (since 1998) by Transmission Technologies Corporation (TTC), however, the design remains unchanged between the two transmission lines. Borg Warner transmissions, for…
Are you plagued with shifting issues in your 2005-up Mustang, including the 2011 and 2012 Mustangs? Have you beefed up the motor with power adders, pushing beyond the limits of the TR3650 (2005-2010) or Getrag MT-82 (2011-2012)? Is the 2-piece driveshaft causing vibration issues at high speeds? The TREMEC®…
Introduced in the spring of 2009, the TREMEC T-56 Magnum 6-speed manual transmission, was the long-awaited and highly anticipated replacement for the original T-56. Based heavily on the TR-6060, the all-new Magnum took the best of TREMEC’s current OEM design and manufacturing technologies and combined them with the most popular features of their intensely popular TKO 5-speed. The…
Early (mid-1960’s and earlier) cars and street rods with their engines and drivetrain sitting back further than today’s cars benefit greatly when the shifter is positioned forward from the standard position offered by the T5 overdrive transmission. For years, car enthusiasts have either lived with the placement of the shifter and modified tunnels,…
Put a “better” overdrive transmission behind your Ford Flathead. JUST RELEASED – Flathead overdrive begins with the adapter. The MDL Flathead bell adapter, made as a direct fit for the 59 series blocks, while also mating to the intermediate ring on the 8 series flatheads, allows you to install a “better” transmission…
Raising the Bar with American-Made Driveshafts QA1 is redefining industry standards by performing filament winding in-house, – a necessary process to design and produce the correct torsional stiffness specifications for world-class carbon fiber driveshafts. It is imperative to have control over the entire filament winding process, and by having the specialized equipment…
Make light work of a heavy pedal by letting fluid do the hard work with an MDL Hydraulic Clutch Kit
The next evolution in the Fox bodied cars is replacing the cabled clutch system with hydraulic actuation. The cable system was a big improvement over the mechanical linkage of 70’s and earlier vehicles. Now for another stepped improvement in smoothness and reliability we offer a hydraulic master designed specifically for the Fox bodied cars of…
MDL HYDRAULICS FEATURES ON STACEY DAVID’S GEARZ TV @ 19:22… about 3 minutes into this segment
Brian Fuller and Kevin Byrd will be installing a new Ford Boss pushrod engine into a 1967 Mustang Coupe being set up to run vintage races with the SVRA (Sportscar Vintage Racing Association). Besides the engine choice, suspension enhancements, tires and wheels, and other parts needed to make it SVRA legal, the car will be…
LF Series Internal Slave Hydraulic Bearing is a solution when an external slave causes interference or no kit has been developed
This 1968 Shelby GT500 Eleanor was sold at Barrett Jackson Car Auction in Scottsdale, AZ on January 18, 2013. The owner/builder of the car wanted perfection. The list of work he wanted done to the car was extensive. The Detail Boss, who did the phenomenal beautification of this car had this to say, ” We…
Designed to be a replacement of the earlier model TR-3550 and TKO, the TKO-500 and TKO-600 has been significantly upgraded, making it more robust, flexible and versatile. The TKO is ideal for high torque motors for the both the street and performance racing applications. Several aftermarket upgrades are available such as carbon fiber synchro rings,…
The improvement is in the Beef The kingpin of TREMEC’s high performance line-up, the all-new T-56 Magnum 6-speed transmission takes the very best from current OEM technologies and pairs it with the most popular features of the all-business TKO 5-speed. Able to withstand a massive 700 lb-ft. of torque while providing unbelievably crisp shifts, no other manual transmission on…
This is the second part of this two part series of the T56 Magnum install Plans for the build include a GM LSA Supercharged 6.2 liter V8 backed by a T-56 Magnum transmission from Modern Driveline. T56 Magnum Install In these two installments of the “Lou’s Change” 1969 Camaro build, the V8 Speed and Resto shop crew…
In this two part video series the V8TV crew rebuilds a 1969 Chevrolet Camaro from a stock-type restoration into a Zl-1 inspired fire-breathing supercharged Pro-Touring machine. Plans for the build include a GM LSA Supercharged 6.2 liter V8 backed by a T-56 Magnum transmission from Modern Driveline. The car will roll on Detroit Speed &…
Our customer Colin Sebern had is ’64 Fairlane featured on /BIG MUSCLE episode of /DRIVE.
An often overlooked item when installing a T56 Magnum is the Reverse Lockout Module. Because of the location of reverse (next to 5th), it would be too easy to accidently hit reverse during a 4-5 up-shift. Not a good thing. To remedy this, Tremec built in a Reverse Lockout solenoid. In the off (de-energised) position…
68-72 CHEVELLE 5 & 6-SPEED CONVERSIONS Overdrive transmissions provide many benefits to longevity and fuel consumption, and they are more fun to shift than automatics. The V8 Speed & Resto Shop crew installs a Tremec TKO-600 from Modern Driveline complete with a hydraulic throwout bearing assembly for easy action and an MDL clutch for positive…
Modern Driveline lives up to its name with Modern Solutions for Classics Power Automedia Power Automedia stopped by the booth at the 2018 SEMA show to interview Bruce Couture, owner of Modern Driveline. A five and six speed conversion company that has been around for 20 years provides tailored transmission solutions to fit the vehicle…
It’s time to put all the confusion, myths, taboo and battles of the Ford 6 cylinder bell housings, flywheels and clutches to bed once and for all. For years people have wondered what they have, what do I need, where can I get it, how come… (fill in the blank). If you have one of…
Need help determining which Ford In-line 6 you have? This article takes away the guess-work when it comes to getting the right components for the flywheel, clutch and starter by showing you the back of the block and what to look for. Ford In-Line 6 This article works with our “6 Cylinder Bell…
Ford Racing High Torque Mini-Starter Which starter to use is a common question and a common source of frustration for people doing a T5 or TKO conversion behind a Ford Small Block. The problem stems from the mis-information in the literature and from the starter manufacturers themselves. It was, and still is, very…
Designed for iOS and Android smartphones, this app will help you plan your project. The TREMEC Toolbox App for iOS and Android smartphones will help you simplify driveline setup, predict the effects of changing gear ratios and tire size, and calculate vehicle speed and RPM variables. TREMEC Toolbox Newly updated to version…
Swapping a T5 overdrive manual transmission into an early Mustang or Falcon (or their Mercury cousins) has never been more popular. We first did this swap in our ’67 Mustang several years ago, but since then countless others have also made the conversion to the modern day five speed for the sake of better fuel economy and…
By Chirag Asaravala. Assembly performed by Bruce Couture, Modern Driveline. For small block Ford enthusiasts the T5 manual transmission may be the greatest thing since sliced bread. With five fully synchronized forward gears, overdrive, an internal shift-rail mechanism and the ability to handle over 300 lb-ft of torque, the T5 is easily the number one…
A quick read all about the Modern Drivelines Cable Clutch Linkage
Let Modern Driveline Put Overdrive in Your Classic Mustang Wayne Cook June 1, 2008 On the other hand, if you believe your Mustang was born to run on the open roads, then the addition of Overdrive will convert your classic Ford from a freeway buzz bomb into a quiet, smooth vehicle that can accomplish a…
Here’s an article by Miles Cook all about the MDL T5 upgrade package for ‘64.5-66 Mustangs
Swapping a five-speed transmission into an early Mustang, Falcon, Cougar, or almost any early Ford could not be any easier these days. Many of the five-speed transmissions found in late model Mustangs can be installed with little modification. 1965 – 66 Mustang For a 1965 – 1966 Mustang we recommend a T-5 transmission for engines…
Installing a TREMEC T-5 in place of an automatic, behind a small block Ford is relatively straight forward. Using many of the same components and concepts as used in Fox body Mustangs in the ’80s and ’90s simplifies the process. Bell housing Start by using a TREMEC T-5 bell housing assembly from a 1984-93 mustang…
Our TREMEC TKO small block conversions are much like the T5 swap. We start with a cable operated 1995 351w Mustang Cobra R model bellhousing. This same bell housing or scatter shield can be used behind any six bolt 289/302/351 block. The Modern Driveline clutch cable kit or hydraulic kit allows the stock early Mustang,…
When it comes to big blocks a T5 will not hold up very well unless you use a T5z, and are not making more than 450hp. In most cases however, it is cheaper to run a TREMEC TKO transmission. When converting from an automatic to a five speed there are a couple of ways to…
Installing a five-speed transmission into a classic muscle car could not be any easier these days. Not only is it easy but there are numerous choices to be had. Transmission Choices Many of the five-speed transmissions found in late model Fords (late model being those produced in the past 35 years) can be used in…
It’s time to put all the confusion, myths, taboo and battles of the Ford 6 cylinder bell housings, flywheels and clutches to bed once and for all. For years people have wondered what they have, what do I need, where can I get it, how come… (fill in the blank). If you have one of…
This article takes away the guess-work when it comes to the right flywheel, clutch, & starter
INTEGRATING FIFTH-GEN STYLING CUES AND TECHNOLOGY WITH A 1969 CAMARO CREATES A PRO-TOURING TRIBUTE TO THE ZL1 By Thomas A. DeMauro from the May 2014 issue of Hemmings Muscle Machines For some, a dream car isn’t one you find and buy, but one you design and build. Such is the case for Lou Steinhauser, an…
’05-’10 Mustangs are fitted with a two-piece steel driveshaft supported in the middle here’s a little on that.
In this Tech write up we look at ditching a C4 for a 5-speed in an inline 6 power car
Take Five! – Modern Driveline’s Five-Speed conversion package for ’71-’73 Mustangs can be swapped in a weekend Jim Smart July 30, 2014 Classic Mustang five-speed conversions are nothing new, but how we do them is getting better all the time. There are piecemeal conversion kits and there are user-friendly conversion kits that make getting into…
Squeeze Play: What you need to know to fit Ford’s Coyote modular V-8 into your vintage Mustang Mark Houlahan Tech Editor, Mustang Monthly July 6, 2015 Pushrod engines can be so 20th century. Ford hasn’t produced a production engine with a cam-in-block design that actuates the valves via pushrods and rocker arms since 2001…
Scrap Your Getrag! Modern Driveline introduces a fast-quick solution to your Getrag MT-82 crunch box woes with the T-56 Magnum XL Jim Smart April 22, 2015 Ford has conceived a hot Mustang fun car we could have only dreamed of 30 years ago with those decidedly lame 175-horse Mustang GTs of the early 1980s. Today,…
T5 Explained: Modern Driveline has everything you’re going to need to freshen up a T5, including real tech support Jim Smart June 22, 2015 One of the most popular drivetrain mods done to early Mustangs is to swap out the non-overdriven three- and four-speed transmissions with the later-model overdrive T-5 five-speed. Not only does the…
a quick guide to installing an MDL Hydraulic Master cylinder & External Slave cylinder upgrade
Stealthy Overdrive From MDL No One Knows It’s There But You Modern Driveline’s new TREMEC TKO600 five-speed overdrive transmission, is engineered to fit your Sunbeam Tiger without cutting or modifying the tunnel. You get durability surpassing Ford’s legendary Top Loader four-speed with vastly improved fuel consumption. You get brute performance in gears one through four…
Upgrading To A Five-Speed Means Greater Car Control, Better Fuel Economy, And An Ear-To-Ear Grin Mark Houlahan Tech Editor, Mustang Monthly October 26, 2010 Photos By: Cars, Inc. It seems like every few years, the OEMs are able to tack on another gear to the latest transmission offerings. For the longest time, an overdrive automatic meant…
Cool Solutions For Your Greatest Resto Challenges Jim Smart January 11, 2014 We’ve been restoring older Mustangs for the better part of 35 years now and it seems we can’t get enough of it. We’re always looking for fresh ideas and easier ways to accomplish what we’ve been doing for close to four decades. At…
Remove the stock transmission from a 2008 Mustang GT & replace it with a TREMEC T-56 Magnum XL 6-speed
The MDL T-56 Magnum XL six-speed conversion package fully capable & ready for action in your 2011-current Mustang.
Hitting the road with a bang-shift attitude for a little canyon cutting, this S197 upgrade is for you.
It’s a gorgeous summer day in suburban Boise, Idaho where we’re installing a TREMEC T5 five-speed transmission in the “Rebuilding Generations” ’71 Mustang convertible along with a Modern Driveline cable clutch upgrade for smooth clutching and shifting. The TREMEC T5 from Modern Driveline, which has been in continuous production since the early 1980s, maintains its…
71-73 Mustang or Cougar to cable clutching in an afternoon and we’re going to show you how
learn to choose an unbeatable clutch and flywheel combo that will serve you well for years to come
MDL’s light-pedal effort hydraulic clutch package install, 1-2-3 easy
The June 2008 edition of Mustang and Fords features a 6 page article detailing Modern Driveline’s T5 conversion of a ’67 Mustang. Author and photographer Wayne Cook details the parts and the process to convert a classic Mustang from a 4-speed to a 5-speed overdrive transmission. As Wayne writes “On the other hand, if you believe your Mustang was born to run on the open roads, then the addition of Overdrive will convert your classic Ford from a freeway buzz bomb into a quiet, smooth vehicle that can accomplish a 500-mile day with ease”
